How the government shutdown affects you

As of today, the United States Government has shut down for the first time since 1996 due to Congress' inability to pass a spending bill. What does this mean for us? According to USA Today:

? More than 40 percent of the federal workforce, deemed nonessential, are staying home. All active-duty military personnel are still working as well as workers who protect public health, safety or property.

? The United States Postal Service will still be delivering mail.

? Passport services will only last until the available funds diminish.

? All national parks will be closed, including most national museums.

? Federal workers will not receive a paycheck.

? The patent and trademark office will continue to run.

? Food safety inspections will continue.

? Social Security functions are still running.

? Unemployment benefits will be paid.

? Food stamps can be obtained, but the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) will not be available federally. Some state funds may be.

? Veterans will continue to receive compensation, but if the shutdown continues into late October, they may run out of money.

? All federal loans will be frozen.

? The IRS will continue to collect taxes, but all auditing activities will be suspended.